Bruins will look internally, externally to replace Jim Benning

After eight years with Jim Benning as a right-hand man, Peter Chiarelli awoke Thursday in a new era.

By Dan CagenDaily News staff

After eight years with Jim Benning as a right-hand man, Peter Chiarelli awoke Thursday in a new era.

Benning is officially gone to Vancouver as the Canucks’ new general manager. On Thursday evening, the Bruins made their first statements since Benning was announced Wednesday night as the Canucks’ top decision-maker.

“Jim was a valuable member of our hockey operations staff for the past eight seasons,” Bruins president Cam Neely said. “Our organization is appreciative of the contributions he made and we wish him and his family the best in their new endeavor in Vancouver.”

“Jim was a valuable member of our organization, whose experience, work ethic and hockey acumen was greatly appreciated in the course of his time here,” general manager Peter Chiarelli said in the statement. “We wish him the best of luck in his new position. Jim will have no further obligations to the Bruins effective immediately. We will look internally and externally to replace that position.”

Filling Benning’s position could be affected by the status of assistant general manager Don Sweeney, who has interviewed for the Capitals’ vacant GM spot. Benning was responsible for scouting and player evaluation, while Sweeney handles the player development side of the front office.